How to Get a Food License in Dubai  

If your taste buds had a bucket list, Dubai would be at the top, thanks to its diverse, multicultural, bursting flavors. Dubai’s food sector is a dream spot for foodies and a jackpot for the business-minded. If you are interested in the food business, Dubai will offer you many opportunities across various models, including restaurants, cafés, food trucks, catering, cloud kitchens, matcha businesses, and so much more. 

In Dubai, the food industry is regulated by Dubai Municipality, and to start a business therein, you will need to get a food license in Dubai issued through them. Safety, hygiene, and quality, the authority ensures the food that is served delivers standards along with taste. 

In this blog, you will get to know the process of securing a food license in Dubai, the costs, legal requirements, and moreover, trending business opportunities in the food business. 

Going through Food Industry in Dubai 

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. Its cosmopolitan nature is clearly reflected in the plates being served at various restaurants, cafés, and eateries. Cuisines from different corners of the world offer a delightful treat to foodies be it traditional Arabic dishes to Indian delicacies, Italian favorites, and Persian flavors. 

Did you know? The UAE foodservice market is estimated to be worth USD 23.21 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to USD 52.76 billion by 2030.  

Farm-to-table dining, AI customized menus, plant-based offerings, exotic flavors, and vegan dishes, all these trends are reshaping the food scene and positioning Dubai as one of the world’s most exciting food destinations. In such a vibrant culinary landscape, opportunities for entrepreneurs are everywhere. There is a lot to experiment with, a lot to serve, and a lot to curate.  

Also, Dubai’s booming tourism and increasing local demand make it the perfect time to enter the industry with a new business. Though there are many restaurants and establishments already, the market is constantly evolving and there’s always room for innovative concepts that bring something fresh and sizzling to the table. 

What is a Food License in Dubai?

A food license, also called a food permit, is a legal permit required to start and run any type of food business in Dubai. Whether you are looking to manufacture food items, sell, import, or export them, you will need a food license in each case. The license is issued by Dubai Municipality. 

Having the license not only makes your business legally recognized but also sends a message that you are fulfilling the highest levels of food quality and safety in your business. 

Types of Food Licenses in Dubai 

Dubai offers different types of food licenses depending on the kind of food business you want to start. Here are a few popular ideas of food business in Dubai: 

1. Food Truck: Food trucks are a popular and flexible business model. You can sell baked goods, fast food, coffee, beverages, or anything else you prefer. The license allows you to operate a mobile or stationary food truck. 
2. Café: If you are interested in opening a trendy or cozy café, Dubai is a great place thanks to its strong coffee culture. You can apply for a cafeteria license to get started. 
3. Restaurant: If you have a bigger budget, you can open a restaurant. This could be a fine dining restaurant, a fast food outlet, a food court stall, or even a hotel-based restaurant, depending on what suits your business plan. 
4. Cloud kitchen: Cloud kitchens can operate without a dine-in space, which makes them a cost-effective option for entrepreneurs. However, the focus should be placed heavily on timely and quality delivery.
5. Catering Services: There is a food license that allows you to serve food at events, offices, parties, etc., called a catering services license. 
6. Kiosks: Kiosks are small food outlets, typically like the ones you see in malls. You can sell snacks, beverages, quick meals, ice cream, and many other varieties. 
7. Food Manufacturing: To start a food manufacturing unit, you can get a food license in Dubai as well. Then you can supply to other businesses or retailers. 
8. Bakery: Yummy bakeries, pastries, cakes, cookies, want to sell delicious treats? Then you can get a food license and start your bakery business. 
9. Vending Machine: If you are looking to set up vending machines, then as a food supplier, you will need to get the proper food license. 
10. Food activity at events: Dubai hosts numerous events every year, and you can tap into this niche by selling or serving food at such events. These can include corporate events, birthday parties, exhibitions, and festivals. 

Legal requirements to get a Food License in Dubai 

To get a food license from Dubai Municipality, you need to meet the following legal requirements: 

1. Dubai Trade License:

To obtain food permits from Dubai Municipality, you must first have an active general business license for your food business. This license will be issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority. The business activity on the trade license must match the food permit activity, and vice versa. 

2. Location approval:

The premises must be registered, and you will need to provide NOC (No Objection Certificate) or Ejari (tenancy contract) as proof of permission for the location you plan to use for your business. 

3. Hygiene standards: 

Your business must comply with food safety and health standards, including strict hygiene practices, proper sanitation, cleanliness, waste disposal, storage, and safe food handling procedures. 

4. Kitchen layout and equipment plan: 

You must submit a detailed plan of the kitchen layout, including space, ventilation, dishwashing, waste disposal, and equipment that meet the standards set by Dubai Municipality. This ensures that the food prepared is safe and hygienic. 

5. Staff training:

Your staff must be properly trained in food safety and hygiene practices through accredited institutions. 

How to get the Food License in Dubai? 

You can get a food license in Dubai through the following easy steps: 

Step 1- Choose business activity 

Start by deciding what type of food business you want to open. It can be a restaurant, café, food truck, cloud kitchen, or catering service. 

Step 2 – Select the Business Structure 

Decide what type of legal structure your business will have. It can be a sole establishment, a partnership, a limited liability company, or another form as permitted. Each structure has its own features, tax responsibilities, and ownership patterns, so you must choose what suits your business goals best. 

Step 3 – Register Trade Name

Choose a clear and memorable name for your food business and get it registered. The name must follow the naming rules set by the UAE authorities. 

Step 4 – Get the initial approval 

The next step is to get the preliminary approval for setting up your business in Dubai. This approval will be issued by the concerned authority based on your selected jurisdiction. It can be the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses or the respective free zone authority for businesses in free zones. 

Step 5 – Get approval from the Food Control Department 

For food businesses, you will need to get approval for the location and kitchen layout. A detailed layout plan must be submitted to the Dubai Municipality’s Food Control Department.  

The plan should include information such as food preparation areas, storage, waste disposal, ventilation, and other hygiene-related details. This step ensures that your premises meet Dubai’s food safety and hygiene standards. 

Step 6 – Obtain the Trade License

Next, you must apply for the business license, which allows you to legally operate your food business in Dubai. The license will be issued by the DED or the relevant free zone authority. Make sure to submit all required documents such as your business plan, layout plan, passport copy, and photographs. 

Step 7 – Apply for the food license 

Now that you have location approval and valid trade license, you can apply for the food license with Dubai Municipality. You can apply either online or through authorized service centers. Documents like copy of trade license, lease agreement, NOC from landlord, space layout, other health and safety certificates, must be submitted along with application. 

Step 8 – Inspection for Health and Safety 

As part of the licensing process, Dubai Municipality will conduct a thorough inspection of your premises to check food safety standards and hygiene practices. Once everything meets the required standards, they will issue a Food Safety Permit. 

Similarly, you will need to engage a licensed pest control company to obtain a Pest Control Certificate. 

Step 9 – Final license issuance 

Finally, once all inspection formalities are completed and the Dubai Municipality is satisfied, it will issue your food license in Dubai successfully.

Which Authorities are Involved in Food Business Setup in Dubai? 

To start a food business in Dubai, you will have to deal with the following authorities: 

• DED / Free Zone Authority: Issues the general trade license and incorporation certificate required for operating a food business in Dubai. 
• Dubai Municipality: Handles food safety approvals, kitchen layout inspections, hygiene certifications, and issues the food permit. 
• Dubai Civil Defence: Oversees and approves the fire safety measures in place for the kitchen. 
• Health Authorities: If the food you serve includes nutritional or health-based value, then approval from the relevant health authority may be required. 

Specialized permits for Food Businesses in Dubai 

There are some specific permits which a business may need depending on its food-related activities, such as: 

• Halal certification: If your business produces or sells Halal food, then you will need Halal certification. 
• Organic certification: Organic food products must meet both organic farming and processing standards and be certified accordingly. 
• Liquor certification: Required to manufacture or serve alcoholic beverages in accordance with local regulations. 
• Food export/import license permit: Needed for the import and export of food items. 

Importance of getting Food License in Dubai 

As a food business in Dubai, your top priority should be to secure a food license as soon as possible. Here is why: 

• Legal compliance: Without a valid food trade license Dubai, you simply cannot legally operate your business. 
• Business credibility: A licensed business is recognized and respected in the industry by all stakeholders. 
• Customer and investor trust: Your food trading license in Dubai reflects high standards of health and quality, which builds customer and investor confidence. 
• Access to government support: Licensed businesses are eligible for government incentives and support programs. 
• Easier market access: Having a license makes it easier to access both local and international markets. 

Documents required for getting Food License in Dubai 

You will generally need these documents when applying for a food license in Dubai: 

• Passport copy 
• Passport-sized photos 
• Visa copy 
• Business plan 
• Valid trade license 
• Additional permits, if necessary 

The documents must be valid and complete to make the application successful. Also, there may be additional requirements, and our experts can better guide you on that based on your business specifications.

Food Trade License Dubai Cost 

The food license cost in Dubai starts from AED 160 (government fees), while a general business license for food business costs around AED 12,500*. 

Food permit fees for some food-related activities in Dubai: 

• Permit for food activity at events: AED 160 
• Permit for a food vending machine: AED 200 
• Annual permit for food truck: AED 200 
• Annual permit for food kiosk: AED 200 per kiosk 
• Permit for non-halal food activity: AED 200 

The final cost can vary depending on your specific business requirements, location, and setup. We recommend consulting our experts for accurate and detailed information as per your needs.

Why Start Food Business in Dubai?

Dubai’s food industry is thriving, full of opportunities, and overflowing with profit potential. Here are some key advantages of starting a food business in Dubai: 

• Booming food industry: Dubai’s food market is rapidly growing, with strong demand from locals, expatriates, and tourists. 
• Diverse food options: The multicultural population creates demand for a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences. 
• Business-friendly environment: The licensing process is easy and streamlined, making it simple to set up and operate. 
• Tax friendly environment: Dubai offers lowest corporate tax rates and many exemptions for qualifying businesses. 
• Tourism hub: Dubai welcomes millions of tourists every year which creates high footfall for restaurants, cafes and other food businesses. 

Start Dubai Food Business with Dubiz 

Bring your entrepreneurial expertise to explore some of the best business opportunities in Dubai’s food sector! And if you need any kind of assistance or even just have a question on your mind, we are available 24/7 to help. 

We can assist you in starting your food business with minimal time involved. From handling licenses and visas to opening a business bank account and taking care of all essential setup requirements, we have got you covered. 

• Trade license application 
• Approvals and permits handling 
• Visa and golden visa services
• Business bank account setup
• Document clearance 
• Export PRO services
• Tax and accounting
• Compliance services 

Contact us today: 

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485
💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485
📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

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